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Inspector Heather Lawson said: "The story of the stray rhea, first thought to be an ostrich, has caused a bit of a stir, with people regularly reporting sightings of it.

"I wasn't sure how we would be able to catch it given the vast area of woodland it was on. However, with a stroke of luck a local farmer spotted the rhea in a field just off Tashieburn Road.

"With the help of fellow officers, members of the public and the local farmers, we were able to keep the rhea confined long enough to construct a holding pen before being able to load him safely into a trailer.

The bird out in the open (Image: Scottish SPCA / SWNS.com)

"The process was relatively straightforward and stress-free, and the rhea seems none the worse for its adventure.

"We're really pleased we have been able to catch him and that he will be able to spend his life at the wildlife park in the company of other rheas."